Gabon has restored access to social media platforms following an eight-month shutdown that attracted widespread public condemnation.
The High Communication Authority (HAC) announced the reversal in a televised address on Saturday.
The country’s media regulator is yet to provide further clarification on the decision.
Authorities introduced the restrictions on February 17, arguing that online publications were encouraging hostility and worsening divisions among citizens.
The decision disrupted millions of users in the Central African nation, where Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram serve as important channels for communication, entertainment and commercial activities, particularly among young people.
Some residents resorted to virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the restrictions and remain connected.
The suspension coincided with growing public dissatisfaction with President Brice Oligui Nguema, who faced mounting pressure less than a year after winning the election.
Teachers and public-sector employees embarked on industrial action to protest against inadequate salaries and unfavourable working conditions.
Opposition groups condemned the restrictions, describing them as an excessive use of presidential authority.
Nguema secured more than 90 per cent of the vote in last year’s presidential election, two years after leading a military takeover that brought the Bongo family’s more than 50-year political dominance to an end.
During his campaign, he promised to transform Gabon, a resource-rich country whose economy depends heavily on petroleum and timber exports.
The latest development comes against the backdrop of concerns over digital freedom, as previous administrations had reportedly resorted to internet shutdowns to restrict the flow of information.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong